Artificial microcracking of granites subjected to salt crystallization aging test

Abstract

Salt crystallization-induced decay of Vardavard granodiorite and Shirkouh monzogranite, two Iranian building stones, were assessed with two non-destructive methods: saturation-buoyancy technique and P-and S-wave velocity measurement. Moreover, polarized and fluorescence microscopy studies were used to evaluate the behavior of the studied stones at microscopic scale against a salt crystallization aging test. The aging test extended pre-existing microcracks and generated new ones. Intracrystalline microcracking was the most predominant microcrack type for both samples. Fine-grained Vardavard granodiorite experienced higher intercrystalline microcracking than coarse-grained Shirkouh monzogranite. The microcracking mechanism of feldspars substantially depends on their alteration degree and microstructural precursors. When a growing microcrack reaches a biotite, it propagates within the crystal if the growing microcrack coincides with the cleavage plane; otherwise, it propagates as an intercrystalline one. The increase in maximum microcrack length of the samples was higher than the increase in their mean microcrack length. Low-strength Vardavard granodiorite showed higher microcrack width after the aging test. Dry weight loss in low-strength Vardavard granodiorite was more pronounced than in high-strength Shirkouh monzogranite. Dry unit weight decreased at a higher rate than saturated unit weight with the increase of effective porosity. The reduction in ultrasonic wave velocities and the increment in effective porosity and water absorption were more pronounced for Vardavard granodiorite, indicating a higher degree of decay, i.e., higher microcrack generation, enlargement, and widening. Shirkouh monzogranite, which has large-sized crystals and pores, wider initial microcracks, high tensile strength, and low effective porosity and microcrack density, was more durable than Vardavard granodiorite.

Long-term behavior of the micro-texture of aggregates used on roads subjected to extreme climate conditions and winter maintenance operations

“…In the schist aggregates, the previous micro-cracks present in the rock evolved in depth, without reaching significant changes in its surface roughness. On the contrary, the amphibolite did not present micro-cracks in origin, but these were generated by the durability tests due to the internal orientation of the rock and the presence of mineralized veins, mainly oxides [43][44][45]. This micro-cracking can produce the loss of material on the surface of the amphibolite, reducing its surface roughness.…”

Petrographic and petrophysical characterisation and structural function of the heritage stones in Fuwairit Archaeological Site (NE Qatar): implications for heritage conservation

“…Petrographic, mineralogical and petrophysical analysis provide quantitative values of parameters directly related to the quality and durability of building stones (Freire-Lista et al, 2015Murru et al, 2018;Zalooli et al, 2020). These parameters have been measured and compared to establish the quality and durability of four building stones from Fuwairit archaeological site.…”

Effect of Salt Mist Ageing on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Two Ignimbrites from the Canary Islands (Spain)

“…Among the available mechanical tests, compressive strength test seems to be the best parameter to determine the degree of deterioration [16]. In general, stones with a higher mechanical strength have higher durability and vice versa [17].…”